The first was political, as European powers, starting with King Leopold II of Belgium, sought to exploit Africa’s resources. The second was ideological, designed by Belgium, the Vatican ...

The international response to the cruel treatment of Africans forced King Leopold II to make the Congo Free State a colony of Belgium. It was then known as the Belgian Congo, until it gained its ...

Great Britain, Portugal, France, Germany, and King Leopold II of Belgium began sending scouts to secure trade and sovereignty treaties with local leaders, buying or simply staking flags and laying ...

While the Belgian royal family doesn't live in the ... The building dates back to King Leopold II and contains many impressive reception rooms; alongside the opulent Throne Room, where speeches ...